Police Hunt Dog Thief In Portsmouth

Police in Portsmouth have released CCTV images of a woman wanted in connection with the theft of a dog.

The images show the woman inside Brothers newsagents on Fratton Road, Kingston, at around 3pm on July 23, 2010.

She was just about to get into a taxi when she spotted the dog, a white and brown Staffordshire bull terrier, tied up by its lead outside.

She allegedly went into the store to see if she could spot the animal’s owner before unclipping it and taking it into the taxi with her.

The suspect is described as:

White woman

Aged in early 20s

Large build

Dark hair in a pony tail

PC Thomas Oatley said:

“The dog’s owner, a 23-year-old man, was shopping in the store at the time. He’s absolutely distraught at what’s happened and would like his dog back.

“So far we’ve had no joy tracing this woman, so I’d like to hear from anyone who recognises her to get in touch.

“I’d also like to hear from anyone who may have been offered a dog matching the description for sale or knows of anyone who’s recently acquired one.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Oatley at Cosham police station on 101 or 0845 045 45 45 from outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. You can also call the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.